FAQ

What is the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)?ESTA is an automated system implemented in 2009 by the Department of Homeland Security, ESTA serves as a screening program prior to travel to evaluate applicants for U.S. travel eligibility and to check for any potential security risks. VWP travelers must have an approved ESTA with a valid passport in order to board a carrier for travel to the United States.

Who is required to have a travel authorization?All VWP travelers, including children, are required to have an approved ESTA with a valid passport prior to traveling to the United States by air or sea.

Does a travel authorization guarantee me admission to the United States?A travel authorization establishes that you are eligible to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, but does not guarantee that you are admissible to the United States. Upon arrival in the United States you will be inspected by a Customs and Border Protection officer at a port of entry who may determine that you are inadmissible under the Visa Waiver Program or for any reason under United States law.

How long is ESTA effective?
ESTA is approved until the nearer day between 2 years from the permission day and expiration date of applicants passport. When applying ESTA, its available period will be displayed.

When should apply ESTA?Application for ESTA can be submitted anytime before traveling to America.
American Government recommends to submit application for ESTA before 72 hours from the traveling date.

When applying ESTA, is travel information required?Travel information and address for staying in America are not required.
In addition, even travel information or address for staying is changed, it is not required to adjust them.

When applying ESTA, does application information cab be adjusted?
Most of ESTA application information can nott be adjusted. Adjustable information is email address, phone number, and travel information.
Passport information (English name, passport number, issuance date, expiration date, etc.) can not be adjusted, so input it carefully in the first application.

What shall applicant do if he/she is disapproved? If travel permit is not approved by ESTA system, applicant must obtain visa to enter America. For more information about visa application procedure, please contact US Embassy.